Here are a gaggle of summer events happening in Charlotte and the surrounding area Aug. 18-Sept. 2 as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing.

ARTS

Alive. Comedian Jared Stern. Aug. 21; Aug. 22. 2909 N. Davidson St.

Lake Norman Comedy Zone. Comedian Dave Tucker. Tue., Aug. 18, 7 p.m. $10. Comedian Dustin Diamond. Comedian and former TV star from his role as Screetch in Saved By The Bell. Thu., Aug. 20, 7:30 p.m. $20. Comedian John Heffron. The Lake Norman Comedy Zone presents a performance by comedian John Heffron, winner of NBC’s show, Last Comic Standing. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tue., Aug. 25. $20. Galway Hooker, 17044 Kenton Dr., Cornelius. 704-995-2658.

McGlohon Theatre. Comedian John Heffron. The Comedy Zone and Blumenthal Performing Arts Center present a performance by comedian John Heffron, winner of NBC’s show, Last Comic Standing.Show contains adult language and content and is not appropriate for ages 17 and under. Wed., Aug. 26, 7:30 p.m. $20. Comedian Ralphie May. The Comedy Zone and Blumenthal Performing Arts Center present a special performance by comedian Ralphie May, a popular contestant from NBC’s show Last Comic Standing. Show contains adult language and content. Thu., Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m. 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000.

SK Netcafe. Taboo Tuesday. Open mic with no language or content restrictions. All comics get five minutes on the stage. Tuesdays, 9 p.m. $2. 1425 Elizabeth Ave. 704-334-1523.

Charlotte Comedy Theater. Charlotte Comedy Theater. High energy, interactive improv comedy shows, private events, classes and team building workshops. Features Chicago comedy veterans and top local talent every weekend for eight years running. Shows: CCT Improv Games on Friday, 8 p.m.; Explicit Content. Stand-up comedy showcase featuring material too controversial to play on the Charlotte Comedy Coalition's regular shows. $10. Fridays, 10 p.m.; CCT's Culture Shock on Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sketch Comedy on Saturday, 10 p.m.; Open Mic featuring stand-up and off-the-wall comedy on Saturday, 11:30 p.m. All shows $10 (Jam $5). Rated R. For show details, visit www.charlottecomedy.com or call 803-458-6824. Saturdays; Fridays. $10. 1308 The Plaza.

The Nook. Robot Johnson. Sketch comedy at the Charlotte Comedy Theatre in The Nook. For more information, visit www.robotjohnson.com. 21 and up. Saturdays, 10 p.m. $10. 1308 The Plaza.

Joseph-Beth Booksellers. Robert Tompkins and Donald Beagle. Signing The Life and Art of Ralph Ray Jr. Thu., Aug. 20, 7 p.m. Dr. Larry Rogers. Signing Against the Grain. Sat., Aug. 22, 11 a.m. Toni Emehel. Signing Wilderness Women Live to Tell the Story. Sat., Aug. 29, 2 p.m. 4345 Barclay Downs Dr. 704-602-9820. www.josephbeth.com.

Altar Boyz. Award-winning Off-Broadway musical comedy based off the book by Kevin Del Aguila and music and lyrics by Gary Adler and Michael Patrick Walker. For tickets, call 704-372-1000 or visit www.queencitytheatre.com. Aug. 20-22, 8 p.m. $14-$28. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 North College St. 704-372-1000.

The Color Purple. This famed musical based on the classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker and the Oscar-nominated film by Steven Spielberg, follows the inspiring story of a woman named Celie. Presented by Oprah Winfrey. Aug. 25-27, 7:30 p.m.; Aug. 28, 8 p.m.; Aug. 29, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Aug. 30, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. $30-$95. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St.

Death Under Cover. Charlotte's Dinner Detective presents this interactive comedy musical dinner murder mystery set in London during WWII where the audience decides who-dun-it. Group, senior, AAA and military discounts available. Advanced reservations required. For information and tickets, call 704-840-5013 or visit www.charlotteshungrygumshoe.com. Fri., Aug. 28, 7 p.m. Tickets include a 3-course sit-down dinner and two-hour show, tax, tip and parking. $59. Grand Central Events, 1000 Central Ave. 704-373-1699.

Shear Madness. A who-dun-it murder mystery that puts the audience right in the middle of the action. Audience participation allows for a different outcome every night. Aug. 18, 7:30 p.m.; Aug. 19, 7:30 p.m.; Aug. 20, 7:30 p.m.; Aug. 21, 8 p.m.; Aug. 22, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Aug. 23, 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.; Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m.; Aug. 26, 7:30 p.m.; Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m.; Aug. 28, 8 p.m.; Aug. 29, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Aug. 30, 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.; Sept. 1, 7:30 p.m.; Sept. 2, 7:30 p.m.; Sept. 3, 7:30 p.m.; Sept. 4, 8 p.m.; Sept. 5, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sept. 6, 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. $29.50 and up. Stage Door Theater, North College St. at 5th St.

Center of the Earth Gallery. City/Country: Sharon Dowell, Dana Johns, Maxx Morgan and Christopher Stephens. An exhibition that features works that capture both landscapes and urban scenes. Continues through Aug. 22. 3204 N. Davidson St. 704-375-5756. www.centeroftheearth.com.

Christa Faut Gallery. 20 Year Anniversary Exhibition. Featuring special paintings, glass and sculptures by gallery artists. Continues through Aug. 31. 19818 N. Cove Road, Cornelius. 704-892-5312. www.christafautgallery.com.

Elder Art Gallery. Young - Fresh - New. This annual exhibition features paintings by emerging, mid-career and well-established artists from across the nation. Participants include Cynthia Anderson, Lance Hewison, Martin Hvattum, Gopika Sitwala, Martha Armstrong, Lara Martini, Susu Pianchupattana and Dirk Walker. Continues through Aug. 31. 1427 South Blvd. 704-370-6337. www.elderart.com.

Here are a gaggle of summer events happening in Charlotte and the surrounding area July 27-August 5 as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing.

ARTS

Barefoot In The Park July 23-25, 8 p.m.; July 30-31, 8 p.m.; August 1, 8 p.m. August 2, 2 p.m. When a newly wedded lawyer moves into an apartment with too many quirks, he becomes bothered. He refuses to join his wife on a barefoot walk through the snow one night, and afterwards all hell breaks loose as he gets kicks out of the home and then returns, not for reconciliation, but to kick his wife out of the house, since he pays the bills. Presented by Davidson Community Players. $20-$22. Davidson College’s Duke Family Performance Hall, 207 Faculty Dr., Davidson. 704-372-1000.

Shear Madness A who-dun-it murder mystery that puts the audience right in the middle of the action. Audience participation allows for a different outcome every night. July 16, 7:30 p.m.; July 17, 8 p.m.; July 18, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; July 19, 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.; July 21, 7:30 p.m.; July 22, 7:30 p.m. $29.50 and up. Stage Door Theater, North College St. at 5th St.

Julius Caesar Part of Collaborative Arts’ free Shakespeare festival. Free. August 5-6, 7:30 p.m.; August 7-8, 8 p.m.; August 9, 3 p.m.; August 12-13, 7:30 p.m.; August 14-15, 8 p.m. McGlohon Theatre, 345 N. College St. For more information, call 704-625-1288 or email hi@collaborativeartstheatre.com.

Death Under Cover Charlotte's Dinner Detective presents this interactive comedy musical dinner murder mystery set in London during WWII where the audience decides who-dun-it. Group, senior, AAA and military discounts available. Advanced reservations required. For information and tickets, call 704-840-5013 or visit www.charlottesdinnerdetective.com. Fri., July 31, 7 p.m. Tickets include a 3-course dinner and two-hour show, tax, tip and parking. $69. Grand Central, 1000 Central Avenue. 704-377-4596.

Grits: The Musical July 31, 8 p.m.; Aug. 1, 8 p.m.; Aug. 2, 3 p.m.; Aug. 5, 8 p.m.; Aug. 6, 8 p.m.; Aug. 7, 8 p.m.; Aug. 8, 8 p.m.; Aug. 9, 3 p.m.; Aug. 12, 8 p.m.; Aug. 13, 8 p.m.; Aug. 14, 8 p.m.; Aug. 15, 8 p.m. $25. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St. 704-342-2251.

Mamma Mia! This hit musical is about a mother who is forced to confront her past as her daughter - who is getting married - invites three men, each of whom were her mothers past time lovers, to visit the island for the wedding. July 29, 7:30 p.m.; July 30, 7:30 p.m.; July 31, 8 p.m.; Aug. 1, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Aug. 2, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St.

Lark & Key Gallery and Boutique Woodcut Prints by Dan Allegrucci with featured potter Ronan Peterson. Exhibition features woodcut prints by Dan Allegrucci and ceramics by potter Ronan Peterson. Opening reception is Fri., Aug. 7, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. July 29-Aug. 30. 453 E. 36th St., Ste. B

Mint Museum of Art Passionate Journey: The Grice Collection of Native American Art. Exhibition features contemporary Native American pottery, modern Maya weavings and Mexican performance masks. Continues through Oct. 17. Mint Museum of Art, 2730 Randolph Rd. 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org.

Mint Museum of Craft + Design American Quilt Classics, 1800-1980: The Bresler Collection. Featuring a diverse collection of quilt designs that illuminate pattern and process. Through Feb. 6, 2010. 220 North Tryon St. 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org.

Here are a gaggle of summer events happening in Charlotte and the surrounding area July 16-July 26 as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing.

ARTS

Barefoot In The Park July 23-25, 8 p.m.; July 30-31, 8 p.m.; August 1, 8 p.m. August 2, 2 p.m. When a newly wedded lawyer moves into an apartment with too many quirks, he becomes bothered. He refuses to join his wife on a barefoot walk through the snow one night, and afterwards all hell breaks loose as he gets kicks out of the home and then returns, not for reconciliation, but to kick his wife out of the house, since he pays the bills. Presented by Davidson Community Players. $20-$22. Davidson College’s Duke Family Performance Hall, 207 Faculty Dr., Davidson. 704-372-1000.

The Producers July 17-25. At the core of the funny adventure is a poignant emotional journey of two very different men who become friends. 8 p.m. Central Piedmont Community College’s Halton Theater. 704-330-6534.

Antony & Cleopatra A temtestuous love affair struggles to survive as power, politics and the demands of Ancient Rome and Egypt tear these two great leaders apart. visit www.shakescar.org for ticket info. July 16, 8 p.m.; July 17, 8 p.m.; July 18, 8 p.m.; July 22, 8 p.m.; July 23, 8 p.m.; July 24, 8 p.m.; July 25, 8 p.m.Theatre Charlotte, 501 Queens Road. 704-376-3777. www.theatrecharlotte.org.

Shear Madness A who-dun-it murder mystery that puts the audience right in the middle of the action. Audience participation allows for a different outcome every night. July 16, 7:30 p.m.; July 17, 8 p.m.; July 18, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; July 19, 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.; July 21, 7:30 p.m.; July 22, 7:30 p.m. $29.50 and up. Stage Door Theater, North College St. at 5th St.

Belly Oasis Mid-East Dance Concert Features the various dance ensembles within Yasmine's school of Mid-East Dance in group performances as well as showcasing Yasmine and members of Magic Hips. Sun., July 26, 5 p.m. $3-$12. Pease Auditorium, CPCC, 1200 Elizabeth Ave. 704-330-6534.

Summer Serenades: A Festival of Music at Queens The Parker String Quartet with Paul Nitsch, piano. Program: Features Beethoven's String Quartet; Schubert's "Trout" Quintet and more. Complimentary desserts follow the concert. For more information, visit www.queens.edu/friendsofmusic. Sat., July 18, 7 p.m. Free for students; $20 for public. Dana Auditorium, Queens University.

Alive Comedians Damon Williams and Double D. Fri., July 17, 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. 2909 N. Davidson St.

City Cafe, Mt. Holly Friday Night Funnies. Children's comedy night, featuring puppets, ventriloquists, stories, sing-a-longs and audience participation. Fri., July 17, 8 p.m. Children are admitted free with paying adult. $5. Friday Night Funnies. A night of comedy and character monologues. Fri., July 24, 8 p.m. $5. 128 S. Main St. 704-822-1450.

Lake Norman Comedy Zone Comedian Dave Tucker. Tue., July 21, 7 p.m. $10. Galway Hooker, 17044 Kenton Dr., Cornelius. 704-995-2658.

Belk Theater Nikki Giovanni. Reading from Hip Hop Speaks to Children. In addition, the event will feature live music, storytellers and other special guests. Sat., July 25. 130 N. Tryon St.

Borders, Northlake S.D. Denny. To sign The Bakers Dozen. Sat., July 18, 1-3 p.m. Dianna Love & Marky Buckham. To sign and discuss Break into Fiction. Tue., July 21, 6:30-9 p.m. Dr. Robert Cochran. Discussing and signing Curing Chronic Pain. Fri., July 24, 6-8 p.m. 6801 Northlake Mall Dr.

Joseph-Beth Booksellers Joanna Beth Tweedy. To sign The Younger Side of Sass and Texas. Sat., July 18, 11 a.m. Clarence Nero. To sign Too Much of a Good Thing Ain't Bad. Sat., July 18, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Elizabeth Towles. To sign The Long Night Moon. Sat., July 18, 2 p.m. Richard Tracey. Signing The Fairfield Murders. Sat., July 25, 11 a.m. Kids Poetry Parade. Kids Poetry Parade. Kids will read new and classic poems, then create their own from pre-cut words. They will have the opportunity to read the poems aloud. Sat., July 25, 11 a.m. 4345 Barclay Downs Dr. 704-602-9820. www.josephbeth.com.

Mint Museum of Art July 18: Passionate Journey: The Grice Collection of Native American Art. Exhibition features contemporary Native American pottery, modern Maya weavings and Mexican performance masks. Continues through Oct. 17. Mint Museum of Art, 2730 Randolph Rd. 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org.

Here are a gaggle of summer events happening in Charlotte and the surrounding area July 7-July 15 as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing.

ARTS

FIGHT CLUB A stage performance based on the novel by Chuck Palahniuk. COTU ventures out into the parking lot to bring you Fight Club. 18 and up. Doors open at 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.citizensoftheuniverse.org or www.myspace.com/cotutheatre. You may also email cotu23@yahoo.com or call 704-449-9742 or 704-953-2874. Events may be canceled due to inclement weather. July 9, 8:30 p.m.; July 10, 8:30 p.m.; July 11, 8:30 p.m. $10. Parking lot of 1311 Central Ave.

METAMORPHOSES Take a dip in Carolina Actors Studio Theatre's wet rendition of Mary Zimmerman's Blockbuster show about science and myth, as well as what we might know in the future. CAST renovated the theater and a pool for the production. July 10-11, 8 p.m.; July 12, 2:30 p.m. Carolina Actors Studio Theatre (CAST), 1118 Clement Ave. 704-455-8542.

THE RAINMAKER See the sparks fly as the ever practical Lizzie and the dreamer conman Starbuck clash in this romantic comedy. For tickets, call 704-330-6534 or visit www.tix.cpcc.edu. July 9, 7 p.m.; July 10, 8 p.m.; July 11, 8 p.m. $17.Halton Theater, 1201 Elizabeth Ave. 704-330-6840.

SHEAR MADNESS This is a "whodunnit" murder mystery that puts the audience right in the middle of the action. Audience participation allows for a different outcome every night. Visit blumenthalcenter.org for showtimes, etc. Tue.-Sun. Continues through Sept. 6. Seats from $29.50. Stage Door Theater, North College St. at 5th St.

WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY Based on Roald Dahl’s story and the Gene Wilder film, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory takes the whole family on an adventure to find the next owner of Willy Wonka’s mysterious Chocolate Factory. July 7-8, 10 a.m.; July 9-11, 10 a.m. $7-$10. Halton Theater, 1201 Elizabeth Ave. 704-330-6840.

CHARLOTTE COMEDY THEATER Explicit Content. Stand-up comedy showcase featuring material too controversial to play on the Charlotte Comedy Coalition's regular shows. Fridays, 10 p.m. $10. The Nook (formerly The Graduate), 1308 The Plaza.

CITY CAFÉ, MT HOLLY Friday Night Funnies. GameShowOke comedy improv variety extravaganza featuring the Chuckleheads. For more information, visit www.thechuckleheads.com. Fri., July 10, 8 p.m. $5. 128 S. Main St. 704-822-1450.

LAKE NORMAN COMEDY ZONE July 7: Comedian Kurt Green.; July 14: Comedian Tim Kidd. Galway Hooker, 17044 Kenton Dr., Cornelius. 704-995-2658.

Here are  a gaggle of summer events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area June 26-July 1 as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing.

THEATER

Cinderella Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts stages performances of the popular Rodgers and Hammerstein musical fairytale. For more information, call 704-846-8343 or visit www.matthewsplayhouse.com. June 26, 7:30 p.m.; June 27, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; June 28, 2 p.m. $15-$17. Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews.

Miles & Coltrane: Blue (.) Featuring the work of emerging professional atist, Concrete Generation, The Stephen Gordon Quintet, God City Art Collective, Jhe Russell & Randolph Ward of NCDT, and Sultan Omar El-Amin. Soon to be an Off-Broadway and European production. Sat., June 27, 8 p.m. McGlohon Theatre, 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000.

Imperial Ballroom The premiere of the world's first ballroom dance book musical, inspired by the music and lyrics of Elvis Costello. Sat., June 27, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. $30-$35. Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St.

The Phantom of the Opera June 26, 8 p.m.; June 27, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; June 28, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; June 30, 7:30. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera is directed by Harold Prince and follows the tragic love story of a beautiful opera singer and a young masked composer shamed by his physical appearance.  Adapted from Gaston Leroux’s classic novel. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Evil Dead: The Musical June 26-27, 8 p.m.; June 28, 7:30 p.m. Sam Raimi’s Cult Classic 1980’s films are to die for due to the ultimate combination of gore and humor. Bill Ensley directs this musical, which features lyrics by George Reinblatt and music by Frank Cipolla, Christopher Bond, Melissa Morris and George Reinblatt. $15-$29. Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St. 704-342-2251. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org.

Metamorphoses June 26-27, 8 p.m.; June 28, 2:30 p.m.; July 3, 8 p.m.; July 4, 7 p.m.; July 5, 2:30 p.m.; July 10-11, 8 p.m.; July 12, 2:30 p.m. Take a dip in Carolina Actors Studio Theatres wet rendition of Mary Zimmerman's Blockbuster show about science and myth, as well as what we might know in the future. CAST renovated the theatre and a pool for the production. Carolina Actors Studio Theatre, 1118 Clement Ave. 704-455-8542. www.nccast.com.

Company June 26-27, 8 p.m. Company features a brilliant energetic score containing many of Sondheim’s best-known songs. Central Piedmont Community College’s Halton Theater. 704-330-6534.

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory July 1-3, 10 a.m.; July 6-8, 10 a.m.; July 9-11, 10 a.m. Based on the Gene Wilder film and Roald Dahl's book, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory takes the whole family on an adventure to find the next owner of Willy Wonka’s mysterious Chocolate Factory. Central Piedmont Community College’s Halton Theater. 704-330-6534.

West Side Story Davidson Community Players presents performances of the Broadway musical West Side Story. For reservations, call 704-892-7918 or go to www.carolinatix.org. You may also visit, www.davidsoncommunityplayers.org. June 25-27, 8 p.m. $15-$22. Duke Family Performance Hall, Davidson College, 207 Faculty Dr, Davidson. 704-894-2361.

FILM

Crossroads Charlotte: The Movie June 30: A viewing of Crossroads Charlotte: The Movie, followed by a discussion of how Charlotte may look in the year 2015. Free. 6:30 p.m. West Boulevard Library, 2157 West Blvd. 704 416-7400. www.plcmc.lib.nc.us.

Movies in the Park at Kannapolis June 26: Madagascar II. Free. 8:45 p.m. Village Park, located along A and C Streets and North Loop Road in Kannapolis. 704-920-4343. www.cityofkannapolis.com.

The Master of Suspense: 7 Alfred Hitchcock Classics June 27: To Catch A Thief. Free. 2 p.m. ImaginOn’s Wachovia Playhouse, 300 E. 7th St. 704-973- 2780. www.imaginon.org.

Here are a gaggle of summer events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area June 18-June 24 as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing.

ARTS

The Phantom of the Opera June 18, 7:30 p.m.; June 19, 8 p.m.; June 20, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; June 21, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; June 23-25, 7:30 p.m.; June 26, 8 p.m.; June 27, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; June 28, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; June 30, 7:30. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera is directed by Harold Prince and follows the tragic love story of a beautiful opera singer and a young masked composer shamed by his physical appearance. Adapted from Gaston Leroux’s classic novel. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Evil Dead: The Musical June 18, 7:30 p.m.; June 19-20, 8 p.m.; June 21, 2:30 p.m.; June 24-25, 7:30 p.m.; June 26-27, 8 p.m. Sam Raimi’s Cult Classic 1980’s films are to die for due to the ultimate combination of gore and humor. Bill Ensley directs this musical, which features lyrics by George Reinblatt and music by Frank Cipolla, Christopher Bond, Melissa Morris and George Reinblatt. $15-$29. Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St. 704-342-2251. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org.

Mint Museum of Craft + Design June 18: Third Thursdays: Live Jazz. Free. 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.; June 19: Taste of Art Friday with Leon Nichols. Free. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 220 North Tryon St. 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org.

Company June 19-27. Company features a brilliant energetic score containing many of Sondheim’s best-known songs. Central Piedmont Community College’s Halton Theater. 704-330-6534.

FILM

Summer Movies at Mountain Island June 18: Madagascar. All ages are welcome for movie screening and popcorn. 4420 Hoyt Galvin Way. 704-416-5600. www.plcmc.lib.nc.us.

2009 Cornelius Outdoor Cinema Series Weather permitting, all movies will begin at dusk (8:30pm). Bring your own blankets and lawn chairs. June 20: Roscoe Jenkins at Smithville Park, 19710 S. Ferry St., Cornelius. For more information, call 704-765-1450 or visit www.corneliuspr.org/2006outdoorcinemaseries.html.

The Light Factory June 18: Idiots and Angels. $5-$7. 7 p.m. The Light Factory’s Knight Gallery, 345 N. College St. 704-333-9755. www.lightfactory.com.

Here are summer events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area June 2-June 17 as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing.

ARTS

LAKE NORMAN COMEDY ZONE June 2: Comedian Tony Tone. $10. 7 p.m.; June 9: Comedian Shaun Jones. $20. Lake Norman Comedy Zone at Galway Hooker Pub, 17044 Kenton Dr. 704-895-1782. www.galwayhookerpub.com.

FLORA, FAUNA AND FORM June 3-28: New works by Alena Hennessy with featured potter Julie Wiggins Opening reception: June 5, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Lark & Key Gallery, 453 E. 36th St., Ste. B. 704-379-1826. www.larkandkey.com.

NC DANCE THEATRE SCHOOL OF DANCE ANNUAL BENEFIT PEFORMANCE June 4, 7:30 p.m. Presenting works choreographed by legendary choreographer George Balanchine and a new work by resident NCDT choreographer Mark Diamond, among others. $15-$50. Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

EVIL DEAD: THE MUSICAL June 5-6, 8 p.m.; June 10-11, 7:30 p.m.; June 12-13, 8 p.m.; June 14, 2:30 p.m.; June 17-18, 7:30 p.m.; June 19-20, 8 p.m.; June 21, 2:30 p.m.; June 24-25, 7:30 p.m.; June 26-27, 8 p.m. Sam Raimi's cult classic 1980s films are to die for due to the ultimate combination of gore and humor. Bill Ensley directs this musical, which features lyrics by George Reinblatt and music by Frank Cipolla, Christopher Bond, Melissa Morris and George Reinblatt. $15-$29. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St. 704-342-2251. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org.

CAMELOT June 5-13. The love story of Arthur, Guinevere and Lancelot captured the heart of a generation. See the magic reborn on the Halton stage. Central Piedmont Community College's Halton Theater. 1206 Elizabeth Ave. 704-330-6534.

NC DANCE THEATRE SCHOOL OF DANCE SPRING STUDENT PERFORMANCES June 6, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. An evening of dance featuring students from the NC Dance Theatre School of Dance performing in varied repertoire from the classical ballet, modern and jazz genres. $15-$25. Booth Playhouse, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

REALISM FOUND June 6-30. Katherine Blackwell, Cher Cosper, David Thayer French, Joshua Gage, Paul Keysar, Andrew Leventis, Osiris Rain, and P.S. Thibodeaux will display their work. This exhibit features these Charlotte artists as they find new meaning in an old tradition. The Queen's Gallery, 1212 The Plaza. 704-372-2993.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA June 10-July 5. Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera is directed by Harold Prince and follows the tragic love story of a beautiful opera singer and a young masked composer shamed by his physical appearance. Adapted from Gaston Leroux's classic novel. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

CINDERELLA June 12, 7:30 p.m.; June 13, 2 p.m.; June 14, 2 p.m.; June 19, 7:30 p.m.; June 20, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; June 26, 7:30 p.m.; June 27, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.; June 28, 2 p.m. Theatre Matthews presents performances of Rodgers & Hammerstein's musical retelling of the classic fairy tale. Directed by Jamey Varnadore, music director Lynn Mitchell and choreographer Lisa Blanton. Matthews Community Center, 100 McDowell St., Matthews. 704-846-8343. www.matthewsplayhouse.com.

HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD June 12-14. The Charlotte Chorale is rolling out the red carpet and presenting a highly charged dinner and musical program featuring classics from the silver screen. Pineville Dinner Theater, 10403-J Park Rd., Pineville. 704-544-0607. www.pinevilledinnertheater.com.

LECTURE, BOB TROTMAN ON BOB TROTMAN June 14, 3 p.m. Free with museum admission. Mint Museum of Art, 2730 Randolph Rd. 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org.

MAMA KNOWS BEST June 14, 6 p.m. A family spiritual/comedy oriented play that expresses the true substance of how a mother and father are the foundation of family structure. CPCC's Pease Auditorium. 1206 Elizabeth Ave. 704-330-6534.

COMEDIAN JAMES GREGORY June 17, 7:30 p.m. McGlohon Theatre, 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

Here are summer events going down in Charlotte and the surrounding area May 19 - June 2 as selected by the folks at Creative Loafing.

ARTS

OCEAN Continues through Dec. 31. This exhibition allows for guests to play, learn and experience the seashore without leaving the Piedmont. The Schiele Museum of Natural History, 1500 E. Garrison Blvd. 704-866-6900. www.schielemuseum.org.

THE FAMILY JEWELS: SMALL PAINTINGS FOR HARD TIMES Continues through June 30. Solo exhibition of oil paintings on panel and acrylic paintings on canvas by Herb Jackson. Christa Faut Gallery, 19818 North Cove Rd., Cornelius. 704-892-5312. www.christafautgallery.com.

THE COLOR PURPLE May 20-May 21, 7:30 p.m.; May 22, 8 p.m.; May 23, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; May 24, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. A musical based on the novel by Alice Walker and the Oscar-nominated film by Steven Spielberg. It tells the story of a woman named Celie and her struggles through racism, sexism and separation from her loved ones. Belk Theater, 130 N. Tryon St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

THE TRIAL May 22-24. Joseph K wakes up one morning to find that he is under arrest. But he doesn't know why or what he did. By Franz Kafka. Performed by the CTC Ensemble Company. Adapted for the stage by Steven Berkoff. Directed by Mark Sutton. Recommended for ages 13 and up. ImaginOn's Wachovia Playhouse, 300 East 7th St. 704-973-2828. www.ctcharlotte.org.

BOB TROTMAN: BUSINESS AS USUAL May 23-Nov. 14. In this exhibition Trotman examines everyday life and the workplace through figurative sculptures. Mint Museum of Art, 2730 Randolph Rd. 704-337-2000. www.mintmuseum.org.

LAKE NORMAN COMEDY ZONE May 26: Comedien Julie Scoggins. $10. 7 p.m.; June 2: Comedian Tony Tone. $10. 7 p.m. Lake Norman Comedy Zone at Galway Hooker Pub, 17044 Kenton Dr. 704-895-1782. www.galwayhookerpub.com.

ALIVE May 29 & 30: Comedians Julie Scoggins and Roger Keiss 2909 N. Davidson St. 704-930-2200. www.matthewscomedyzone.com.

METAMORPHOSES May 28-30, 8 p.m.; May 31, 2:30 p.m.; June 4-6, 8 p.m.; June 7, 2:30 p.m.; June 11-13, 8 p.m.; June 14, 2:30 p.m.; June 18-20, 8 p.m.; June 21, 2:30 p.m.; June 25-27, 8 p.m. Take a dip in Carolina Actors Studio Theatre's wet rendition of Mary Zimmerman's Blockbuster show about science and myth, as well as what we might know in the future. CAST renovated the theater and a pool for the production. Carolina Actors Studio Theatre, 1118 Clement Ave. 704-455-8542. www.nccast.com.

DAY OF ABSENCE May 28-30, 8 p.m.; May 31, 3 p.m. On Q Productions presents this production of Day of Absence, written in 1965 by Douglas T. Ward. This satirical play explores racial issues in the South during a segregated era. $12-$15. Afro-American Cultural Center, 401 North Myers St. 704-374-1565. www.aacc-charlotte.org.

COLLABORATIVE ARTS' FREE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL. Twelfth Night. Free. May 28-June 14. The Green in Uptown, 435 S. Tryon St. For more information, call 704-625-1288. www.collaborativeartstheatre.com.

FILM

FREEDOM FILM SERIES: COMIC DUOS May 20: Tommy Boy; May 27: Rush Hour. Free. 6 p.m. Freedom Regional Library, 1230 Alleghany St. 704-416-4200. www.plcmc.lib.nc.us.

FLASHBACK FRIDAY May 22: Jumanji. 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Free. ImaginOn's Joe & Joan Martin Center. For teens ages 12-18 only. For more information, call 704-973-2728. 300 E. 7th St. www.imaginon.org.

MOVIES AT THE PARK IN KANNAPOLIS May 22: Wall-E. Free. 8:45 p.m. Village Park, located along A and C Streets and North Loop Road in Kannapolis. 704-920-4343. www.cityofkannapolis.com.

MATTHEWS SUMMER CONCERT & MOVIE SERIES May 23: Kung-Fu Panda. Vendors will be on site selling food and drinks. Pre-movie activities begin at 7 p.m. and movies begin at approximately 8:30 p.m. or dusk. For more information, call 704-321-7275 or visit www.matthewsfun.com. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews.

CULT MOVIE MONDAYS May 25: Theatre650 offers Cult Movie Mondays with free admission to film screening and free popcorn. Drink specials include $2 Yuengling, Miller Lite and Coors Light. Evil Dead 3: Army of Darkness. Doors open at 7 p.m. Movie starts at 8 p.m. Admission is first-come, first served. Actor's Theatre of Charlotte, 650 E. Stonewall St. www.actorstheatrecharlotte.org/cultmovies.htm.

AFTERNOON AT THE MOVIES May 30: Join film expert Sam Morris for an afternoon movie. Popcorn and refreshments provided. 1 p.m. Morrison Regional Library, 7015 Morrison Blvd. 704-416-5400. www.plcmc.lib.nc.us.

MOVIES ON THE ROOFTOP The Epicentre Theaters and Mez present sundown showings of first-run movies on the Rooftop Pavilion at EpiCentre. Movies will change weekly, but will be selected from current hits and summer blockbusters, including Angels & Demons and Transformers. Screenings will take place Sunday nights, Wednesday nights, and one additional night each week. $12. The first screening will be Sun., May 31. Continues throughout the summer. 210 E. Trade St. www.ghazicompany.com.

MUSIC

TREMONT MUSIC HALL May 20: Jukebox The Ghost with Jenny Owen Youngs and Parachute; May 21: Get On The Stage No. 6, featuring Beware! The Stereotype with RazorKat and AvionSansPilot and more; May 22: Street Value XII Dance Party; May 23: Gorilla Productions Battle of the Bands; May 24: Gorilla Productions presents Through the Void, Black Days of January, Downside Dead and more; May 26: King with With Wings of Lead; May 28: The Omega Cell, Echo Code and Tattermask; May 29: Dreamkiller, Wicked Jones and Chapel Grove; May 30: Lucky Five, The Urban Sophisticates and The Solos Unit. 400 W. Tremont Ave. 704-343-9494. www.tremontmusichall.com.

THE EVENING MUSE May 20: The Spongetones, Justin & the Cosmics/The Afterwhiles/Love Colt; May 21: Sam Thacker with Hightide Blues; May 22: Roman Candle/The Deep Vibration, Jupiter One/Dolson/The Speedbumps; May 23: Tony Lucca/Andrew Hoover/Joey Degraw, Audioform/Fuzz & Mac/Blount Harvey; May 24: Country Line Strangers, azurenaut, Jasper Land and more; May 25: Find Your Muse Open Mic with featured artist Sequoyah Prep School; May 27: The Spongetones, Fernandina/Eleisha Eagle; May 28: Dylan Gilbert/Brett Harris/The Tomahawks, The Benjy Davis Project; May 29: Mike Garrigan/Mark Kano, Transmission Fields with brotherbrother. May 30: Charlotte FemmeFest. 3227 N. Davidson St. 704-376-3737. www.theeveningmuse.com.

DOUBLE DOOR INN May 20: The Crowntown Showdown, a showcase of local and regional talent; May 21: Bill Hanna Jazz Jam; May 22: Carolina Live Music Society presents An Evening with The Mantras & Vertigo Jazz Project; May 23: The Young Ages; May 25: Service Industry Night featuring The Monday Nite All-Stars; May 26: J Wail with Silver Machine; May 27: The Lee Boys; May 28: Bill Hanna Jazz Jam; May 29: Tommy Talton; May 30: Part Time Blues Band. 1218 Charlottetowne Ave. 704-376-1446. www.doubledoorinn.com.

FOOD LION SPEED STREET May 21: Bell Biv De Voe, Bridgette Tatum, Jason Aldean; May 22: Lifehouse, Otherwoods, Rodney Atkins, Simplified; May 23: Bobby Messano, Brit Price, Clint Black, Doug Davis, Gavin Degraw, Girls, Guns & Glory, Green River Ordinance, Jonathan Singleton, Mckenzies Mill. Uptown Charlotte. www.600festival.com.

ALIVE AFTER FIVE May 21: Tuesday's Gone (a Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band) and Sticky Fingers; May 28: Frontiers (a Journey tribute band) and Big Ed's Garage. Pavilion at EpiCentre, 210 E. Trade St., Ste 230-B. www.aliveafterfiveatepicentre.com.

VISULITE THEATRE May 21: Jolt Wagon, M4 Messenger, Near Gravity; May 22: Paleface, Jim Avett, Samantha Crain & the Midnight Shivers; May 23: Bums Lie, Stump Dickins; May 28: Larry Keel and Natural Bridge; May 29: Heywire, Neighbors Acres, Hot Hand Spirits; May 30: Blue Dogs. 1615 Elizabeth Ave. 704-358-9200. www.visulite.com.

SUBARU RIVER JAM May 21: Roadside Attraction; May 28: Ten Toes Up. Enjoy live music on Thursday nights at the US National Whitewater Center. Free. 7 p.m.-10 p.m. 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. 704-391-3900. www.usnwc.org.

SNUG HARBOR May 21: Bob Log III, Willem Maker, 2013 Wolves, The Holy Smokes; May 22: Holy Liars, Trouble Walkers, Guam High, Slow Gun Shogun; May 23: Two Tears, Radio Taiwan, Throttlerod, The Have and The Have Nots; May 24: Crank Country Daredevils, The Poontanglers, Appalucia, The Bitterman; May 27: Battle Beasts, Apathy Like You Mean It, A Flash of Alchemy; May 29: Junior Astronomers, Death Becomes Even the Maiden, The Lo and Beholds; May 30: The Noises 10; May 31: Sundae at Snug Harbor with George Brazil. 1228 Gordon St. 704-333-9799. www.snugrock.com.

THE MILESTONE May 21: Goes Cube, Teams, Battle Beast; May 22: Hopewell, Foxchase, Coma League; May 23: Antiseen, 25 Minutes to Go, Music Hates You; May 24: Thrones, Grids, Projexorcism, Clang Quartet; May 27: Husky, Boolow, Admiral Browning; May 28: Reverser, Pride Parade, Chamelon; May 29: Lamb Handler, Babyshaker, Transient; May 30: The Helio Sequence, The Lights Fluorescent, Ultimate Optimist. 3400 Tuckaseegee Rd. www.themilestoneclub.com

STONECREST @ PIPERGLEN BAM-JAZZ FREE OUTDOOR CONCERT May 22-23, 7 p.m.; Aug. 7-8, 7 p.m. Bill Averbach & Bam-Jazz will be performing their New Orleans flavored brand of jazz, blues, cajun, and world beat music. Free. 7804 Rea Rd. www.bamusic.net.

CONCERT SERIES AT BIRKDALE May 22: Jason Marcum; May 23: True Fiction; May 29: The Merrows; May 30: Sons of Zen. Birkdale Village, 8712 Lindholm, Ste. 206., Huntersville. 704-895-8744.

CAROWINDS FESTIVAL OF MUSIC 2009 May 22, 29, 30. 14523 Carowinds Blvd. 704-588-2600. https://music.carowinds.com.

FOUNDERS HALL FRIDAY ACOUSTIC CONCERT SERIES May 22: Ziad, jazz duo. 100 N. Tryon St. 704-716-8649. www.foundershall.com.

MCGLOHON THEATRE May 23: Toad the Wet Sprocket; May 29: Queen City Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra – An Ideal Evening. 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.

NEIGHBORHOOD THEATRE May 23: Sol Driven Train; May 26: Les Claypool; May 29: Josh Phillips Folk Festival; May 30: Charlotte FemmeFest. 511 E. 36th St. 704-358-9298. www.neighborhoodtheatre.com.

AMOS' SOUTHEND May 24: Bourbon Crow with Wednesday 13 and Rayen Belchere; May 28: Stephen Marley; May 29: Player/Kommander, Red All Over and Snowfight; May 30: Appetite For Destruction (The Ultimate Guns 'N' Roses Tribute), Ride The Lightning (The Ultimate Metallica Tribute); May 31: Little Feat. 1423 S. Tryon St. 704-377-6874. www.amossouthend.com.

JOYFEST May 23: Featuring performances by Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Tye Tribbette and Smokey Norful. Carowinds' Palladium Amphitheatre, 14523 Carowinds Blvd. 704-588-2600. www.carowinds.com.

CONCERTS ON THE GREEN May 24: Sound Barrier, rock & roll. Picnic theme is Galloping Gourmet. Downtown Davidson. www.downtowndavidson.org.

FEMMEFEST May 30: Featuring more than 30 artists, poets and musicians – local and regional – will perform beginning at 5:30 p.m. in a celebration of women in the arts. Held in NoDa at N. Davidson Street and 36th Street and venues including The Evening Muse, Neighborhood Theatre, Prevue, Smelly Cat Coffeehouse, Dolce Vita, Wine-Up. www.charlottefemmefest.org.

MATTHEWS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES May 30: Cookie, a mixture of Motown, oldies and variety. Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade St., Matthews. 704-321-7275. www.matthewsfun.com.

CORNELIUS CONCERT SERIES May 31: Ms. Jones and the Velvetones. 3 p.m. Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, 19600 Zion St., Cornelius. 704-892-8566. www.mtzionumc.net.

OVENS AUDITORIUM June 2: Celtic Woman: Isle of Hope. 2700 E. Independence Blvd. 704-372-3600. www.ovensauditorium.com.

MORE FUN

CHARLOTTE MOUNTAIN BIKE SERIES May 20-Sept. 2: Races open to all bikers regardless of experience with 12 categories. $17. Location varys each week. 704-503-0138. www.charlottemtnbike.com.

WINDSTREAM POLE NIGHT May 21: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers give their all during qualifying and try to claim first position for the Coca-Cola 600. $12-$20. Lowe's Motor Speedway, Concord. 704-455-3200. www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.

FOOD LION SPEED STREET May 21-23: The streets of Uptown Charlotte are transformed into a showcase of motorsports with three entertainment stages, appearances by top Sprint Cup Drivers, exhibits for all ages, simulators, and more. Free. 11 a.m. to midnight. 704-455-5555. www.600festival.com.

WORLD OF OUTLAWS SHOWDOWN May 22: The nation's best sprint car racers battle it out on the dirt track. $10-$25. 5 p.m. The Dirt Track at Lowe's Motor Speedway, Concord. 704-455-3200. www.lowesmotorspeedway.com.

PATRIOT FESTIVAL May 23: Join us Memorial Day weekend as we salute our military heroes. Experience an activity-filled day with your friends and family with live music, kid-fun area, military vehicles, fire trucks and special military maneuvers. $5 donation. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall, 4400 Sharon Rd. 704-533-3796. www.patriotgala.com.

$25 WORKSHOPS AT CHEAP JOE'S ART STUFF May 23: Beginning Oils with Katie Blackwell; May 30: Intro to Anime and Manga w/ Bethany Root. Cheap Joe's Art Stuff, 4420 Monroe Rd. 704-333-2527. www.cheapjoes.com.

"BACK TO THE GARDEN" COMPOSTING WORKSHOP May 23: Learn how to turn grass clippings, leaves, twigs, kitchen scraps, and more into treasure through composting! $10. 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont, N.C. 704-829-1252. www.DSBG.com.

CONCAROLINAS 2009 May 29-31: Charlotte's best convention for fans of sci-fi, fantasy, horror, gaming, anime, and costuming. Features numerous writers, media, and art guests. $15-$30. Hilton Charlotte University Place, 8629 JM Keynes Drive. www.concarolinas.org.

2009 PET PALOOZA May 30: The Humane Society of Charlotte's annual dog walk includes a one-mile pet walk, vendors, refreshments, musical entertainment, a dog fashion show, a silent auction, other activities and fun for the entire family. $10 to walk; free otherwise. 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Independence Park, 300 Hawthorne Lane. 704-494-7704. www.humanesocietyofcharlotte.org.

KIDS TRIATHALON May 30: Huntersville Family Fitness & Aquatics invites children ages 2-14, including physically challenged, to compete in our swim/bike/run triathalon. 6 p.m. Huntersville Family Fitness & Aquatics, 11725 Verhoff Drive, Huntersville. 704-666-2222. www.HFFA.com.

INDOOR FOOTBALL May 30: Carolina Speed vs. South Carolina Force. $5-$20. 7 p.m. Bojangles' Coliseum, 2700 E. Independence Blvd. 704-786-0280. www.carolinaspeed.com.

OUTDOOR PORTRAITURE WITH DAVID KELLY May 30: Learn how to take portraits outdoors using natural lighting. $36. 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 South New Hope Road, Belmont, N.C. 704-829-1252. www.DSBG.com.

MEN IN THE CITY BACHELOR AUCTION May 30: Meet some of Charlotte's most successful and eligible bachelors. A portion of the proceeds will be donated toward college scholarships. $20. 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Spirit Square, 345 N. College St. 704-451-5910. www.deltasofcharlotte.org.